Acts of Paul and Thecla 3

1Then Thamyris said, “Come with me to my house and refresh yourselves.” So they went to a very splendid banquet, where there was abundant wine and very rich food.

2They were brought to a richly spread table, and Thamyris gave them plenty to drink because of his love for Thecla and his desire to marry her.

3Then Thamyris said, “I want you to tell me what this Paul’s teachings are so that I may understand them. I am deeply concerned about Thecla, since she takes such delight in that stranger’s words that I am in danger of losing the woman I intend to marry.”

4Then Demas and Hermogenes answered together, “Have him brought before the governor Castillius as someone who is trying to persuade the people to adopt the new religion of the Christians. Then the governor, in accordance with Caesar’s decree, will put him to death, and in this way you will obtain your wife.

5“At the same time, we will teach her that the resurrection he speaks about has already come and consists in our having children, and that we rose again when we came to the knowledge of God.”

6When Thamyris heard this account from them, he was filled with burning resentment.

7Early the next morning, he got up and went to the house of Onesiphorus, accompanied by the magistrates, the jailer, and a great crowd of people carrying clubs. He said to Paul,

8“You have led the city of Iconium astray, including Thecla, who is betrothed to me, so that now she will not marry me. Therefore, you must come with us to the governor Castillius.”

9Then the whole crowd cried out, “Away with this impostor (magician)! He has led the minds of our wives astray, and all the people listen to him.”